LETTER | The Consumers’ Association of Penang (CAP) welcomes the initiative by the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) which has imposed a 50 percent increase on car parking charges and plans to impose a parking time limit on certain roads because of congestion in those localities.

These measures are a step in the right direction to address the growing traffic congestion and will promote better management of parking spaces.

CAP has also identified several public parking lots where large barrels, plastic chairs, flower pots, or other items were placed and obstructed parking spaces.

Moreover, vehicles encroaching on pavements and bus stops exacerbate the congestion issues already prevalent on Penang’s roads, causing undue problems for commuters.

CAP also urges the MBPP to take immediate steps to improve and upgrade the public transport services. The rise in private car usage is a major contributor to road congestion, and without a reliable and efficient public transportation system, the issue of traffic congestion will persist.

We need to prioritise improvements in public transport infrastructure and ensure that it is convenient, affordable, and well-connected to encourage a shift away from dependence on private cars.

This will not only alleviate traffic congestion but also contribute to a cleaner and greener Penang.

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